In recent news from Japan, it has been speculated that the long-standing partnership between Toyota and Subaru, particularly in the development of the twin GR86/BRZ models, may soon come to an end.
According to a report by Mag-X on Friday (14/7/2023), Toyota is currently in the process of developing the GR86 equipped with a 1.4-liter inline three-cylinder engine. In alignment with the manufacturer’s commitment to carbon neutrality, the GR86 is expected to be coupled with an electric motor.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that the latest iteration of the GR86 model will retain the front-engine rear-wheel drive (FR) configuration, which has been a defining characteristic of this vehicle.
The termination of the collaboration with Subaru can be attributed, in part, to the retirement of engineer Tetsuya Tada in 2021. With no replacement identified as of yet, the continuation of the joint project has become uncertain.
Although the report states that the new GR86 will continue to be manufactured at the Gunma Subaru factory, the future availability of its twin model, the BRZ, remains unclear due to the absence of a boxer engine.
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Interestingly, the report by Mag-X contradicts the information provided by another Japanese magazine, Best Car.
According to the Best Car website, the GR86 is expected to feature a three-cylinder engine sourced from the GR Yaris, maintaining a 1.6-liter turbo capacity and delivering an impressive power output of up to 300 hp.
However, due to the limitations of the existing platforms in accommodating such an engine without significant architectural modifications, it is highly likely that the new GR86 model will be built on the Lexus IS platform.
On the other hand, Subaru intends to continue offering the current BRZ model to consumers.
Irrespective of the varying accounts emerging from Japan, it remains clear that Toyota is committed to providing a lineup of sports cars that cater to the needs and desires of automotive enthusiasts who appreciate the thrill of traditional petrol-powered vehicles.